For Freedoms
Are you registered to vote in this year’s high-stakes election? For one day, the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland is hosting a voting registration drive in tandem with an artist-run super PAC called For Freedoms, a collective project drawing on the themes of voice, freedom of speech and civility that’s conceived by acclaimed New York City artist Hank Willis Thomas. It’s also an opportunity to create election-style yard signs that make statements about what you really believe. Free. Oct. 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 11400 Euclid Ave., mocacleveland.org
Ohio Mart at Stan Hywet
Akron’s historic estate hosts one of the largest annual artisan showcases of its kind, with 120 artists from jewelry makers to gingerbread bakers. Plus, having the event here means a chance to get a prime, autumnal tour of the grounds. $10. Oct. 7 & 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 9, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org
CiCLEvia
This new movement has one simple goal: to open up the streets. This weekend, the coalition is set to shut down West 25th Street from Clark Avenue until MetroHealth Medical Center to make way for active bikers, yoga addicts and salsa dancing. All in a “people-powered movement” that might turn Cleveland into the next Portland, Oregon. Free. Oct. 8, 1-5 p.m., ciclevia.com
Chagrin Documentary Film Fest
At this doc fest, the truth can be stranger than fiction. Named one of the “top 50 festivals worth the entry fee,” Chagrin’s film fest features more than 70 films in seven theaters, from subjects on America’s gun debate to Ohio State University’s historic performance of “Hang On Sloopy.” Thru Oct. 9, see website for times and prices, various locations in Chagrin Falls. chagrinfilmfest.org
East 55th Street Fest
In spirit of small business awareness, the Cleveland Victory Church hosts a one-day celebration filled with local music, fun for kids, a school supplies giveaway and an appearance from motivational speaker Mike Mathis. Need a new car? Victory is also raffling one off. Free, Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Cleveland Victory Church, 1632 E. 55th St.